The Undertaker has put to rest any hopes of returning to his iconic hat and coat persona, officially retiring that legendary side of his WWE character. During a recent episode of his “Six Feet Under” podcast, The Deadman—real name Mark Calaway—revealed that since his in-ring retirement at WrestleMania 36, he has consciously distanced himself from his classic “Deadman” gimmick, choosing instead to embrace only the “American Badass” biker persona. “The hat, the coat, that whole side of The Undertaker, I retired,” he stated firmly. “I kind of retained the American Badass part of it — the one that can relate to the people. That helps me. I will not jeopardize that part of my legacy”[1].
This announcement underscores what many long-time fans witnessed at WrestleMania 33, when The Undertaker laid his hat, coat, and gloves in the center of the ring, symbolizing the end of that chapter of his career, though he continued to make sporadic appearances afterward. According to the legendary star, the fear of diluting his legacy or disappointing fans keeps him from ever slipping back into the “Deadman” attire. Even in commercials or promotional appearances, the Deadman said he “absolutely will not put it back on”[1][4].
The Undertaker’s retirement marked the close of an era for WWE. His career spanned over three decades, during which he evolved from a macabre supernatural figure to a more complex, deeply respected wrestler and backstage leader. WWE has repeatedly celebrated his contributions as foundational to its growth as a global entertainment powerhouse[2]. When asked on Bully Ray’s podcast if any fee could convince him to don his trademark hat and coat again, The Undertaker’s blunt reply was, “stupid number”[1].
Interestingly, the iconic Deadman gimmick nearly never existed in its famed form. Early on, WWE considered other characters for Calaway, including a Viking persona, but ultimately decided on the immortal mortician character that became a defining symbol of sports entertainment[3]. The Viking gimmick later went to another wrestler, John Nord, who performed as The Berzerker[3].
In other WWE news, Elayna Black, better known to fans as Cora Jade, has fiercely rejected recent claims that she was a bully during her tenure in WWE’s developmental system. Speaking out in a candid interview, Black directly addressed the rumors, calling them “misguided and inaccurate.” Sources close to her confirm that she has maintained a professional and respectful demeanor among her peers throughout her WWE journey, standing firm against any attempts to undermine her character[1].
The professional wrestling industry continues to see evolving stories both in and out of the ring, with larger-than-life personas like The Undertaker now firmly stepping back as new stars like Elayna Black/Cora Jade push forward. WWE’s blend of nostalgia with fresh talent remains key to its ongoing success.
Backstage Insights: According to a WWE insider who spoke with Wrestling Headlines, “Mark’s decision to retire the hat and coat was about protecting one of the most revered legacies in wrestling history. He knows what that character meant to millions, but he’s at peace letting it rest. Meanwhile, the young talent like Cora Jade are stepping up, and WWE is fully behind them evolving the product.” This insider noted the company’s strategy of honoring legends while elevating new faces continues to shape WWE’s programming and business model.
With The Undertaker’s definitive farewell to his Deadman persona and unresolved rumors being dispelled by rising stars like Elayna Black, WWE fans are reminded that while legends may retire, the show indeed must go on. Both old and new chapters play pivotal roles in WWE’s enduring global popularity.
Key SEO Phrases: The Undertaker retirement, Undertaker hat and coat gimmick, WWE The Undertaker news, Cora Jade bullying claims, Elayna Black WWE interview, WWE legends retirement, American Badass Undertaker, WWE backstage news.